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Winston’s guide-dog graduation From Playful Pup to Skilled Partner More Than a Working Dog Supported by dotsure.co.za At just under two years old, Winston, once a mischievous pup known for his cheeky bark and love of bucket-chasing, has officially graduated as a guide dog. Trained by the South African Guide-Dogs Association , Winston has been paired with Luwie, a seasoned handler who has welcomed him as a working partner, as well as family.   “I don’t see myself without a guide dog any longer,” says Luwie, who has been partnered with five guide dogs since 1994. “Since receiving Winston, I’ve been able to do everything myself again. He’s changed my daily routine completely. We bonded within a week, and now we’re just going strong.” Related Articles Big Dog Breeds Perfect for South African Homes From Playful Pup to Skilled Partner Like many young guide dogs, Winston started his training bursting with energy — sometimes a little too much. “He was actually quite n...

What Does a Dry Nose Mean for My Dog? Is It Normal for My Dog to Have a Dry Nose? What Are the Most Common Causes of a Dry Nose in Dogs? When Should I Worry About My Dog’s Dry Nose? How Can I Help My Dog If Their Nose Is Dry? What Can I Do to Prevent My Dog’s Nose from Drying Out? When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet for a Dry Nose? What’s the Bottom Line on Dry Noses in Dogs? A dog’s nose is often seen as a window into their overall health, but a dry nose doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Moisture levels can naturally change throughout the day due to factors like sleep, weather, or activity. Still, there are times when dryness could point to an underlying issue. In this article, our AI Vet explains the common causes of a dry nose in dogs, when it’s normal, and when it’s time to seek veterinary advice. What Does a Dry Nose Mean for My Dog? A dry nose is often seen as an indicator of a dog’s overall healt...

Why Choose a Large Dog for a Family? Tips for Choosing the Right Large Dog for Your Family Choosing the right dog for your family is a big decision, especially when you have children. Large dog breeds are often praised for their loyalty, gentle nature, and protective instincts, making them wonderful companions for kids. However, not all large breeds have the same temperament, energy level, or care requirements. In this guide, we’ll explore the best large dog breeds for families, along with tips to help you pick the perfect furry friend. Why Choose a Large Dog for a Family? Large dogs tend to have calm, tolerant temperaments, which can make them great around children. Many are patient, protective, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their human family members. While they require more space and exercise than smaller dogs, their loving personalities and steady nature make them excellent choices for households with kids. 1. Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever ...

Understanding a Shy Rescue Dog Creating a Safe Environment Building Trust Through Routine Gradual Socialisation Positive Reinforcement Training Using Enrichment to Boost Confidence Seeking Professional Help Adopting a rescue dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but some dogs arrive shy, fearful, or anxious due to past neglect or trauma. Helping a shy rescue dog gain confidence takes patience, understanding, and consistent care. By providing a safe environment, gentle socialisation, and positive reinforcement , you can help your new companion feel secure and develop trust, creating a strong and lasting bond. Understanding a Shy Rescue Dog Rescue dogs often carry emotional scars from neglect, abuse, or limited socialisation. Shyness and fear are natural responses to these experiences, and expecting your dog to adjust instantly can lead to frustration for both of you. Understanding your dog’s background and temperament is the first step in supporting their emotional g...

Being a pet parent in 2025 is more exciting than ever. With the rise of smart devices and innovative pet technology, caring for dogs and cats has become easier, safer, and more enjoyable. These gadgets don’t just add convenience for owners — they improve the health, happiness, and safety of pets too. Top 5 must-have gadgets for modern pet owners in 2025 1. Smart Pet Feeders Source: Takealot – BNETA Automatic Shedule Pet Feeder F14-L Feeding routines can be a challenge for busy pet parents. Smart feeders solve this problem by letting you schedule meals, set precise portions, and monitor feeding times through a mobile app. Many 2025 models even come with built-in cameras and two-way audio, so you can check in while your pet eats. This is especially helpful if you’re often away from home but want to keep your pet’s diet consistent and healthy. Why it’s a must-have: Keeps your pet fed on time, reduces overfeeding, and provides peace of mind. 2. GPS Pet Trackers Source: TailMe ...

Kitchen Dangers for Pets Living Room Risks Bathroom Hazards Bedroom Concerns Garage & Laundry Room Dangers Outdoor Areas to Watch What to Do If Your Pet Is Exposed to a Hazard Bringing pets into your home means sharing your space with curious creatures who often explore with their mouths and paws. Unfortunately, many common household items and areas can pose serious risks to your furry friends. By understanding the dangers room by room, you can better protect your pets from accidents and poisoning. Here’s a practical guide to help you keep your pets safe in every part of your home. Kitchen Dangers for Pets The kitchen is one of the most hazardous rooms for pets because it contains many tempting but toxic items. Certain foods like chocolate , grapes, onions, garlic, and products containing xylitol can cause severe illness or even be fatal if ingested. Cleaning products stored under the sink or on countertops often contain harmful chemicals that can cause burns or poisoni...

Top 10 Vegetables Dogs Can Eat Tips for Serving Vegetables to Dogs Vegetables Dogs Should Avoid Dogs are omnivores , eating both meat and fruits and vegetables. In the wild, dogs would occasionally eat fruits, vegetables, and plants, especially from the stomach contents of prey animals. In modern diets, vegetables can: Provide fibre for better digestion Offer low-calorie treats for weight control Supply vitamins and minerals to support immunity and health Add variety to prevent boredom with regular meals The key is to feed safe vegetables in moderation. Not all veggies are created equal, and some can be harmful if not served correctly. Top 10 Vegetables Dogs Can Eat Here’s a list of dog-safe vegetables that your pup can enjoy as part of a balanced diet: 1. Carrots Crunchy, sweet, and packed with beta-carotene, carrots are great for your dog’s eyes, skin, and teeth . Serve raw as a treat or steam them for easier chewing. 2. Green Beans Low in calories and full...